A designer fashion store has applied to open in Norwich's branch of Dr Martens, but the shoe giant says it has no plans to leave the city.

Women's fashion chain Mint Velvet has applied to open in the Castle Street store currently occupied by Dr Martens, but staff at the shoe shop said they were unaware of the plans when contacted this morning and now the company itself has said it is not closing.

However, Mint Velvet has submitted an application to Norwich City Council to "refurnish and re-brand" the store with a refurbished interior and exterior in the brand's style.

It says the refurbishment would see the store made to be as accessible as possible with the introduction of an accessible fitting room.

Norwich Evening News: Dr Martens in Castle StreetDr Martens in Castle Street (Image: Newsquest)

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Mint Velvet currently has a concession in Jarrolds and has about 50 standalone stores in the UK, but announced plans in June to open six new stores this year.

Norwich Evening News: Plans for the new Mint Velvet store in NorwichPlans for the new Mint Velvet store in Norwich (Image: Norwich City Council)

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A spokesman for Dr Martens said they had received no contact from Mint Velvet or the city council and had no plans to move or close.

He said: “Dr Martens has no intention of closing the Norwich location at 23-25 Castle Street”.

When it opened in 2013, Dr Martens' Norwich store became the UK's largest, employing eight people at the time.

Mint Velvet and Norwich City Council have been contacted for comment.

Those wishing to comment on the plans have until October 6, while it is hoped a decision will be made by November 2.